Associate Director, Alumni Relations and Development Services

Department: Alumni Relations & Development
Salary/Grade: EXS/9

Job Summary:

Reporting to the assistant vice president (AVP) of Alumni Relations and Development Services (ARDS), the associate director prioritizes, directs, and responds to administrative functions associated with daily operations and team management, and proactively directs data and analysis work for the AVP. Works in coordination with others in Alumni Relations and Development, specifically the direct reports of the AVP, the Operations team, and the Vice President's Office. Follows up on outstanding work or projects, to ensure they are completed.

This role includes coordinating and completing various data and analysis responsibilities, including regular reports to leadership, industry and peer benchmarking projects, and regular review of CRM and related applications for data accuracy and clarification. Performs deep-dive analysis into fundraising forecasting and trends. Develops an in-depth knowledge of giving, biographic, and prospect data for alumni and donors, and complete complex analyses and anticipate or quickly answer business-critical questions. Monitors and reports on AVP budget and spending. Coordinates with ARDS colleagues to develop and deliver training to ARD colleagues on various areas within ARDS.

Please note: This role is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement, up to two days remote and three onsite.

Please note: The target budgeted salary for this position is $78,500 - $84,000 annually. Offers will be based on candidate experience and education, as well as equity within Northwestern University

Specific Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning

• Gathers data and develops strategies designed to maximize operational services in meeting client team goals & objectives.
• Reviews plans, meets with leadership and key faculty and staff, and recommends changes and improvements to operational services to better meet organizational needs and objectives.

Collaboration

• Involves moderate- to-high-level of collaboration with both internal department partners and moderate level of collaboration with broader University partners to identify & integrate resources in order to accomplish strategic goals & objectives.
• Key partnerships and work involved below:
  • Coordinate with VP Office to deliver regular and ad hoc analysis reports
  • Identify appropriate ARD colleagues to provide essential information
  • Coordinate with ARDS colleagues to problem-solve and conduct deep analysis
  • Respond to requests from university Finance and Operations departments for descriptive and forecasted analysis.

Prospects & Gifts

• Maintains a level of understanding of giving, biographic, and prospect data that allows for interpretation of complex situations and the ability to explain the information to someone without a deep understanding.
• Manages operational programs and services that provide customer service oriented, client team centered guidance and counsel based on individual team needs, circumstances, preferences, etc.
• Acts as liaison to internal/external departments, attends meetings to determine needs, consult on strategy, manage projects and provide updates.
• Partners with client teams to conduct research and analysis to meet needs ensuring that data and knowledge is obtained to increase the identification, cultivation, and solicitation of donors.

Evaluation

• Manages development and maintenance of evaluation processes including associated quantitative and qualitative metrics and key performance indicators.
• Reviews & analyzes outcome measurements and recommends changes, enhancements, and improvements.
• Collaborates with internal/external partners to implement changes designed to improve/increase operational services goals/objectives.

Events

• Coordinates training and educational workshops, meetings, etc. including speakers, agendas, etc.
• Develops plans and arranges meetings and workshops, etc. designed to exchange information, promote client objectives, and to build internal and external relationships within NU.
• Ensures that event details including communication, venues, presenters, travel arrangements, materials, refreshments and technology are arranged and completed in an appropriate and timely manner.

Administration

• Coordinates day-to-day operations ensuring that business processes and policies are appropriately maintained, efficient and effective. Recommends changes, enhancements, and improvements.
• Acts as liaison to Central and NUIT to ensure technology systems are properly installed & maintained & meet the informational, analytical & computing needs of users.
• Analyzes IT functionality and recommends changes and enhancements in processes and systems resources to better meet client needs.
• Implements ongoing operational services data integrity initiatives including participating in review, testing and quality assurance of processes, software, hardware, etc.
• Compiles & analyzes data; prepares reports; shares results and recommendations with clients.
• Creates and maintains documentation, procedures, standards, and policies related to operational services.
• Conducts regular reviews of policies and documentation to ensure information is current.
• Researches best practices, peer institutions, market/economic conditions and government rules and regulations and recommends changes and enhancements to improve administrative effectiveness, services and/or resources.

Budget

• Monitors and reports on budget and spending.

Supervisory

• Supervises 1-2 staff &/or provide work direction.
• Provides training to staff within or outside of immediate dept or division in regard to function.

Miscellaneous

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications: (Education, experience, and any other certifications or clearances)

• Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.
• 4 years operations, administration, development, or the equivalent experience is required.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Demonstrates initiative and independence in managing responsibilities, consistently identifying opportunities for improvement without requiring direct supervision.
• Maintains a high level of accuracy and thoroughness in all tasks, ensuring that deliverables meet quality standards and deadlines.
• Approaches challenges with creativity and innovation, regularly proposing new ideas and solutions that enhance team effectiveness and operational efficiency.
• Communicates clearly and professionally across all levels of the organization, ensuring alignment and understanding through written and verbal channels.
• Thrives in team environments, actively contributing to group discussions, fostering positive relationships, and supporting shared goals.
• Effectively plans, organizes, and executes complex projects, balancing multiple priorities while ensuring timely completion and stakeholder satisfaction.

Preferred Qualifications: (Education and experience)

• Data analysis and reporting expertise
• Translatable familiarity with industry CRMs and platforms

Benefits:

At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.

Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.

Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process.